In a thrilling start to the Eastern Conference semifinals, the New York Knicks pulled off a stunning 108-105 overtime victory against the Boston Celtics at TD Garden on May 5, 2025. This remarkable comeback saw the Knicks erase a daunting 20-point deficit in the second half, showcasing their resilience and tenacity in a high-stakes playoff atmosphere.
The game began with the Celtics establishing an early lead, driven by Jayson Tatum's explosive scoring. Tatum, who scored 13 consecutive points in the first quarter, finished the night with 23 points, although he struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 4-of-15 from three-point range. Alongside him, Jaylen Brown also contributed 23 points but faced similar shooting woes, going 1-of-10 from deep.
As the game progressed, the Celtics appeared to be in control, leading by as much as 20 points during the third quarter. However, the Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby, had other plans. Brunson, who had a quiet first half with only 9 points, erupted in the fourth quarter, finishing the game with 29 points, including several crucial baskets that helped shift the momentum in favor of New York.
"We just kept fighting. Once we got down, we told each other to keep believing, and we just found a way," Brunson said after the game, reflecting on the team's determination to overcome the odds.
OG Anunoby was instrumental in the Knicks' comeback, matching Brunson's scoring output with 29 points of his own. Anunoby showcased his shooting prowess, hitting six three-pointers and delivering key plays that energized his team. His performance included a pivotal steal and fast-break dunk that tied the game in the fourth quarter, demonstrating his ability to perform under pressure.
With the Knicks trailing by nine entering the final quarter, they quickly went to work, outscoring Boston 45-25 to end regulation. The turning point came when the Knicks went on an 11-2 run to start the fourth, closing the gap and setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
As the clock wound down, the tension in the arena was palpable. With the score tied at 100, the Celtics had a chance to win in regulation, but Tatum's deep three-pointer fell short, sending the game into overtime. The Celtics had a 98.2% chance of winning at one point, but the Knicks' relentless effort proved otherwise.
In overtime, Mikal Bridges emerged as a key player for New York. Despite scoring only eight points, his defensive prowess was on full display. Bridges recorded a crucial steal from Jaylen Brown in the final seconds, solidifying the Knicks' victory. He also contributed a pivotal three-pointer and a blocked shot during the extra period, showcasing his all-around game.
Josh Hart played a significant role as well, contributing 14 points and 11 rebounds, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 14 points and 13 rebounds despite facing foul trouble throughout the game. Towns’ presence in the paint was felt, even when he was limited in minutes due to fouls.
On the other side, the Celtics struggled with their shooting, particularly from three-point range. As a team, they finished with a dismal 15-of-60 from beyond the arc, setting a playoff record for the most missed three-pointers in a single game. Their shooting percentage from three was a mere 25%, which ultimately cost them the game. Coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, "The process of our shot quality was good, but we need to convert more of those opportunities going forward."
The Celtics had a solid first half, leading by 16 points at the break after closing the second quarter on a 13-3 run. Payton Pritchard was a bright spot for Boston, scoring 13 points in the second quarter and helping build their lead. However, as the game progressed, the Knicks' defense tightened, forcing the Celtics into difficult shots and limiting their offensive rebounds.
This victory marks a significant moment for the Knicks, as it is their first win in Game 1 of an NBA playoff series on the road since the 1999 Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers. The Knicks will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for Game 2, scheduled for Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET.
As the series continues, both teams will need to make adjustments. The Knicks will aim to replicate their defensive intensity and clutch shooting, while the Celtics must find a way to improve their shooting efficiency and capitalize on their scoring opportunities. With the rivalry renewed and the stakes high, fans can expect an exciting continuation of this playoff battle.
